Indulgent Caramel Apple Stuffed French Toast
This Caramel Apple Stuffed French Toast transforms the beloved classic into an extraordinary experience that's perfect for special occasions or when you simply deserve to treat yourself. Combining the comforting warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with rich caramel and custard-soaked bread, this recipe delivers all the flavors of fall in one decadent brunch dish.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Medium Saucepan
- Shallow Wide Bowl
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 3 medium Honeycrisp apples peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Pink Lady work beautifully as well)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the French Toast
- 8-10 slices brioche bread day-old works best; challah or Texas toast make excellent substitutions
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or substitute half-and-half for extra richness
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter for cooking
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter cubed
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt use flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften.
- Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pinch of salt. Let the mixture simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the apples are coated in a syrup. When apples are fork-tender but still hold their shape, remove from heat.
- Stir in the lemon juice and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Set aside and allow to cool slightly.
- For the caramel sauce, heat 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Do not stir, but gently swirl the pan occasionally as the sugar melts.
- Once the sugar has melted and turned a deep amber color (about 5-7 minutes), carefully add the cubed butter and whisk until completely incorporated.
- Remove from heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, continuing to whisk. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, then set aside to cool slightly.
- In a shallow, wide bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well combined.
- Take one slice of brioche and spread approximately 2 tablespoons of the apple mixture over it, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Place another slice on top, creating a sandwich. Gently press the edges together.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, dip your apple-stuffed sandwich into the egg mixture, allowing each side to soak for about 15-20 seconds.
- Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, adjusting heat if necessary to prevent burning. Repeat with remaining sandwiches, adding more butter as needed.
- Transfer to plates and drizzle generously with the homemade caramel sauce. Optionally finish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Notes
- Day-old or slightly stale bread works best for French toast, as it absorbs the perfect amount of custard without becoming soggy.
- Cook at medium-low heat for even cooking without burning.
- Let the bread rest for 1-2 minutes after dipping to allow the custard to penetrate completely.
- The apple filling can be prepared up to 3 days in advance.
- Caramel sauce keeps for up to 2 weeks refrigerated.
- For a healthier version, try whole grain bread, almond milk, and reduce the sugar in the apple filling.
- Cook at medium-low heat for even cooking without burning.
- Let the bread rest for 1-2 minutes after dipping to allow the custard to penetrate completely.
- The apple filling can be prepared up to 3 days in advance.
- Caramel sauce keeps for up to 2 weeks refrigerated.
- For a healthier version, try whole grain bread, almond milk, and reduce the sugar in the apple filling.
Nutrition
Calories: 485kcalCarbohydrates: 68gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 175mgSodium: 430mgFiber: 3gSugar: 42g
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